I Tried Haitian Food on Pizza. It Was Perfect.
You can pair it with a pina colada, too
Check out the video review on our Instagram!
I remember growing up there were two styles of pizza: Delivery and Frozen. Anything beyond that was reserved for fancy dinners in restaurants that had stuff like pebble ice and sneeze guards. Now? It seems like every city with a population over 12 has its own style of pizza, which usually comes with some disgusting-sounding local twist. “Have you tried Bismark Style pizza? It comes topped with ground coyote and yak cheese!”
One style I had not seen before was Kreyol-style pizza, a Haitian delicacy I’m happy to report is better than about 90% of the American regional styles I’ve encountered. I discovered it at 1804 Haitian Pizza, which is curiously sandwiched between two of Miami’s restaurants-of-the-moment Edan Bistro and Cotoa. Inside, they’ve found a genius way to introduce Americans to the island-nation’s little-known cuisine: Putting it on pizza. And the result is one of the most inventive, delicious hidden gems I’ve found this year.
So what is Kreyol pizza?
In its essence, Kreyol pizza is the same pizza you know and love, topped with traditional Haitian foods. At 1804, that includes griot, codfish, herring, and other typical dishes. The sauce skews a little sweeter than your typical Italian red sauce – this is the Caribbean after all. And you might find Haitian epis seasoning mixed in the sauce too.
What to eat and drink: Obviously, you’ve got to try the pizza, and don’t go for your typical pepperoni and mushroom. Start with the griot - that’s fried pork shoulder if you’re not familiar with Haitian food. The 1804 Special is a mix of seafood that’s perfect for those who like their protein from the sea. They’re also putting that same lineup of Haitian classics in tacos, if you want something a little lighter.
Peruse the cooler and you’ll find Haitian beers you likely haven’t encountered unless you’ve been to the island or a Haitian-American home. Try one for the novelty, they’re pretty similar to most Caribbean lagers. There’s also a whole line of fresh-pressed juices that are sneaky good. I had the mango, which tastes like your neighbor just juiced whatever was on his tree.
The space: Is big, clean, and bright. A large photo of an historic mountain fort covers one wall. Haitian music plays on TV, and cases with baked goods, Haitian patties, and cold drinks beckon you to order beyond the menu. It’s the perfect spot to dip your toe into Haitian cuisine.
Perfect for: Takeout lunch or dinner.
Expect to pay: About $20 per person.
Pro tip: The pizza is more an entrée than a meal, and you’ll fill up fast with all the meats on top. Order accordingly.
How’s the parking: There’s a lot just south of the strip of restaurants with Edan and Cotoa that’s convenient. Street parking is plentiful, but also popular.
@1804haitianpizza // 12485 NE 6th Ct., North Miami